The Presenter’s Playbook for Annual Meeting Submission Success

David M. Cognetti, MD, Annual Meeting Program Committee member

David M. Cognetti, MDAs someone who has attended and presented at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO for more than 20 years, I have witnessed tremendous evolution in our field. Through it all, one truth has remained constant: The meeting is invaluable. It is where careers accelerate, collaborations begin, techniques are refined, friendships are strengthened, and inspiration is renewed. Whether you are a resident submitting your first abstract or a seasoned surgeon sharing decades of experience, there is immense value in attending—not just for what you contribute, but for what you absorb.

Over the years, I have observed what separates accepted submissions from those that fall just short. While scientific merit is the foundation, strategic positioning can be the difference-maker. As a member of the Annual Meeting Program Committee (AMPC), I have gained further insights into how to maximize chances for acceptance. Here are several recommendations I encourage all prospective presenters to consider while preparing their submissions.

• Submit something! As the adage goes, you miss 100% of the shots you do not take. Our specialty is broad in clinical subspecialties and practice types, and all are represented at the Annual Meeting. The AMPC is seeking to create a program that matches the broad interests of our specialty, and you certainly have something you can share.
• Review gap analysis topics. Each year, the Academy publishes a comprehensive gap analysis that lists promoted topics of interest to members. Not only will a review of the list spark ideas for your submission, but submissions linked to promoted gaps are more likely to be accepted.
• Include diverse perspectives. One of the ways the Annual Meeting has evolved over the years is through increased diversity. The best panels reflect the full scope of our specialty and our patients. Submissions that include perspectives outside of a single institutional lens are inherently stronger. Including private practice physicians can also validate real-world feasibility. Additionally, including international colleagues broadens clinical context and highlights global relevance.
• Commit to mentorship. The submission process has actively encouraged mentorship of junior speakers in recent years. Whether you are the mentor or mentee, this is an excellent way to increase your chances of acceptance. This year, Expert Lectures will allow the option to add a third presenter to encourage this concept.
• Submit to high-yield categories. Carefully consider which format best highlights your work. Scientific Poster presentations have the highest acceptance rate. A well-edited surgical video that emphasizes a valuable clinical pearl has a high chance of being accepted in the Master of Surgery Video category.
• Join a committee. Panel Presentations are not solo efforts and committee endorsement conveys credibility and alignment. Committees have limitations on the number of panels they can sponsor, and the best way to be part of a sponsored panel is to be at the committee meeting. Committee applications take place each winter and most committees welcome guests at the meeting. Invited offerings such as the Great Debates, Ask the Experts, and Crucial Conversations frequently feature our most engaged members.
• Submit before the deadline! The Call for Science site closes at 11:59 pm (ET) on Monday, January 26, 2026. This is a firm deadline this year. Submit before the site closes. There will not be an extension this year.

Final Thoughts

After two decades, I still leave the meeting energized each year. I see young surgeons discover their direction and experienced surgeons rediscover theirs. The AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting is our specialty’s town square, open to all, constantly advancing, and essential to our individual and communal success.

Submit ambitiously. Submit strategically. Submit on time.

See you at the podium.